State gives grants for digital literacy, broadband adoption

The state of Tennessee has announced dozens of grants to improve computer and online skills and access to broadband services at libraries.

The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development said Thursday that libraries in 52 cities and counties are receiving digital literacy and broadband adoption grants.

"Today's libraries play a critical role in bridging the digital divide. These grants will allow them to offer more training opportunities in communities that have long been underserved by something many of us take for granted: internet access," Secretary of State Tre Hargett said in a news release.

Public libraries offer free computer and broadband access. Grants will support classes to help people improve basic computer skills, apply for jobs, navigate small business applications and learn online.

The grants also will provide devices and hardware to increase capacity at libraries and provide STEM programming for youth that supports broadband adoption.

The grants are part of the Tennessee Broadband Accessibility Act, approved by the General Assembly last year.

Altamont Public Library, Altamont, Tenn.

Barbara Reynolds Carr Memorial Library, Tazewell, Tenn.

Bristol Public Library, Bristol, Va.

C.E. Weldon Public Library, Martin, Tenn.

Calhoun Public Library, Calhoun, Tenn.

Carroll County Library, Huntingdon, Tenn.

Clay County Public Library, Celina, Tenn.

Coalfield Public Library, Coalfield, Tenn.

Crockett Memorial Library, Alamo, Tenn.

Dickson County Public Library and Lifelong Learning Center, Dickson, Tenn.